Russia, Czechia Start Solving Problems In Bilateral Relations That Were Once Considered Insurmountable

At last, Russia and Czechia can get down to the solution of problems which were once considered insurmountable. Russian premier Mikhail Kasyanov expressed this opinion as meeting Czech businessmen on Wednesday. In his words, "today it is clear that the potential of cooperation between our countries was used inadequately". At present, the point at issue is the implementation of promising projects, such as extending the Trans-Siberian railway to Western Europe via Czechia, with the construction of a terminal in the city Bohumin and a wide-track railway. Apart from that, noted Kasyanov, the Czech side is prepared to take part in the laying of a gas pipeline in Kamchatka and the modernization of Uralmash and a number of other Russian plants. For its part, Russia is interested in participation in the privatization of Czechia's gas facilities and oil-refineries. In the near future, the question of the construction by the Czech Skoda car factory of a car-assembly plant in Russia will be finally solved, said Kasyanov. Two potential construction sites have already been allotted. After one of them has been chosen, investments will start coming and construction proper will begin, he said. "We are counting on Czech investors," stressed the premier. In Kasyanov's estimate, in general, trade with Czechia has markedly grown this year. Czech imports to Russia have grown by 30%, while Russian exports to Czechia - by 12 %. Kasyanov recalled that Czechia intends to join the European Union and Russia hails this intention, establishing at the same time "a deeper dialog" with the EU. This partnership is not only possible but also extremely important for the creation of a common economic environment in Europe, stressed Kasyanov.